Trio of veterans aims to lead Vicksburg High football turnaround in 2025

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Marquis Knight, Jadarius Henderson and Jamikal Maxey are expected to be key contributors for the Vicksburg High School football team this season. The veteran trio has each served in starting roles and hopes to help lead the Gators to a turnaround year under head coach Christopher Lacey.

Maxey enters his second year as the starting quarterback, and his confidence is higher than ever heading into his senior season.

“We’re more prepared than last year, and we’re putting in more work,” Maxey said. “We’re putting the pieces together so that we can outdo our competition.”

After struggling with mistakes last season, Maxey focused this offseason on improving his football IQ and fine-tuning his skills during 7-on-7 summer tournaments.

“Last year I made a lot of mistakes, but I’ve been reading defenses better and my RPO game has improved a lot,” he said. “I’m positive we’ll have the minimum amount of mistakes this year.”

In June, Maxey threw 31 touchdowns while leading Vicksburg to a 20-5 record in 7-on-7 competition. He finished the 2024 season with 969 passing yards and five touchdowns.

Knight brings versatility, leadership

Knight is one of the Gators’ top all-around athletes, contributing at wide receiver, defensive back and kick returner. He enters his third season as the team’s starting wide receiver and said he’s ready to take a leadership role in 2025.

“We’ve got an offense full of seniors this year and a statement to prove,” Knight said. “I plan on catching the ball and scoring every chance I get.”

Knight said fans should expect a more dynamic offense this season.

“We’re coming bigger and stronger in 2025, and being ranked lower only motivates us to show the doubters that we’re a better football team,” he said.

Knight was named to the All-District team last season on offense. He also recorded 12 tackles, one pass deflection and one interception on defense in 2024.

Henderson anchors defense, expands role:

Henderson has made an impact since he first stepped on the field and enters 2025 as a defensive leader and multi-role athlete.

“We’re doing good things this summer, and I’m excited to see what the new year brings,” he said.

Henderson recorded 70 tackles and two sacks as a junior and will also take on snaps at running back this season.

“I’m doing whatever I can to help my team and I’m ready for anything thrown my way,” he said. “I’m aiming to get the most tackles, touchdowns — I just want to do everything I can to help my team.”

Henderson added that the Gators are focused on cutting down last year’s mistakes and making a statement.

“We’re not that 0-10 team from last year. We’re very different now, and we’re ready for August to get here,” he said.

Vicksburg will open the 2025 season on Aug. 29 when it travels to face Natchez.